The two companies have entered into a three-year research collaboration to jointly develop in vivo genome editing treatments for genetic diseases, including haemophilia.
During collaboration, bluebird and Novo Nordisk will focus on identifying a development gene therapy candidate with the ambition of offering people with haemophilia A a lifetime free of factor replacement therapy. The research collaboration will utilize bluebird bio’s mRNA-based megaTAL technology that has the potential to provide a highly specific and efficient way to silence, edit or insert genetic components. Aligned with Novo Nordisk’s haemophilia portfolio, the research collaboration will initially focus on correcting FVIII-clotting factor deficiency, with the potential to explore additional therapeutic targets.
“We are pleased to announce our collaboration with bluebird whose demonstrated capabilities in gene therapy will enable the next-generation of innovative products to make a significant impact on patients’ lives,” said Marcus Schindler, senior vice president for Global Drug Discovery in Novo Nordisk. “This important research collaboration aimed at addressing genetic diseases at the DNA level reflects Novo Nordisk’s enduring commitment and dedication to inventing disease-modifying medicines that can truly change the lives of people living with haemophilia and other genetic diseases.”
Photo: Haemophilia R&D at Novo Nordisk A/S, Måløv, Denmark, 2015
